- Title: Japanese-inspired art provides a living for artist in Gaza
- Date: 8th August 2021
- Summary: GAZA CITY, GAZA (AUGUST 4, 2021) (REUTERS) VARIOUS OF AMIGURUMI ARTIST BASSMA MAHMOUD MAKING TOY OUT OF CROCHET TOYS ON DISPLAY (SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) AMIGURUMI ARTIST, BASSMA MAHMOUD, SAYING: "I was very interested in how simple threads are shaped into unique and well-made figures. I had a lot of passion to know the secret behind the pieces made with only a thread and needle." MAHMOUD THREADING NEEDLE VARIOUS OF MAHMOUD CROCHETING (SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) AMIGURUMI ARTIST, BASSMA MAHMOUD, SAYING: "When I found out about amigurumi and got introduced to it, it was a new art form in the Arab world and I was amazed by it. I started trying. I would produce a piece and it wouldn't be right, then I would produce another with a lot of mistakes." SIGN READING (English): "BASSMA STORE"
- Embargoed: 22nd August 2021 10:41
- Keywords: Amigurumi Business Crochet Gaza Palestinians
- Location: GAZA CITY, GAZA
- City: GAZA CITY, GAZA
- Country: Palestinian Territories
- Topics: Living/Lifestyle,Middle East,Society/Social Issues
- Reuters ID: LVA001EPF5KYD
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Story Text:Gazan amigurumi artist, Bassma Mahmoud, earns a living making toys for children using just a needle and thread.
Once exposed to amigurumi, the Japanese art of knitting and crocheting stuffed figures, Mahmoud's interest led to a growing passion for the art and a desire to learn the skill with the resources at her disposal.
"When I saw amigurumi and got introduced to it, it was a new art form in the Arab world and I was amazed by it. I started trying. I would produce a piece and it wouldn't be right, then I would produce another with a lot of mistakes," 28-year-old Mahmoud said.
Mahmoud persevered until she perfected the craft and established an online business selling her dolls.
The cost of each doll varies between $20 and $70 depending on its size and the details requested by her clients, with some dolls taking up to 20 days to complete.
To make toys relevant to her culture, Mahmoud adds small touches of Palestinian heritage by dressing them in traditional costumes or adding colorful embroidery.
She sometimes makes them resemble historical figures or cartoon characters that children love.
(Production: Fadi Shana, Arafat Barbakh, Mohammed Shana) - Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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